John Cena retirement: Date of final WWE match set for Saturday Night's Main event in December

John Cena has a date for his final match. Cena's farewell tour comes to an end on Dec. 13 as WWE Saturday Night's Main Event hosts his professional wrestling retirement.

NBC confirmed the news following an announcement that Saturday Night's Main Event will stream exclusively on Peacock. Last year, WWE struck a deal to air quarterly primetime specials on NBC and Peacock. The exclusive move to Peacock follows news that ESPN will become WWE's exclusive home for pay-per-views starting with the newly announced Wrestlepalooza event on Sept. 20.

"Peacock has had a wonderful relationship with the WWE and we're excited to see it continue far into the future," said NBC Sports president Rick Cordella. "Saturday Night's Main Event is some of the most premium content the WWE produces, including John Cena's upcoming retirement match, and it will be all live and exclusive on Peacock."

There are no further details about Cena's retirement match. There is speculation that the event will take place in or around Boston, but WWE has not confirmed it. Boston would be a fitting choice for Cena's swan song, an hour drive from his birthplace, New Westbury, Massachusetts.

Cena entered 2025 knowing it would be his last year as an in-ring performer. The farewell tour has featured numerous memorable moments: his shocking heel turn at Elimination Chamber, winning a record 17th world title at WrestleMania 41, and being victim to Brock Lesnar's surprise return at SummerSlam.

Cena's next major singles match is a high-profile collision with Logan Paul, set for Clash in Paris on Aug. 31.

source: cbssports.com

WWE To Offer Live Events On ESPN’s Streaming Service Earlier Than Expected, Starting With Inaugural ‘Wrestlepalooza’ In September

WWE is no longer waiting until next year to bring premium live events to ESPN‘s new direct-to-consumer streaming service and will instead kick off the recently announced partnership next month. The wrestling promotion announced Wednesday that the first live event offered on ESPN platforms will be the inaugural Wrestlepalooza on September 20.

The event, which will take place in 2025 Royal Rumble host city Indianapolis, will begin streaming live on the new ESPN service at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

This means that, as of September 20, ESPN will become the exclusive domestic home for all of the WWE’s premium live events. The rest of this year’s PLEs, including Crown Jewel and Survivor Series, will also stream on the new platform.

Starting next year, marquee titles like WrestleMania and SummerSlam will also move to ESPN after concluding a five-year run on NBCUniversal’s Peacock this year.

“On September 20, WWE and ESPN are coming together for a can’t-miss event to kick off our new partnership,” WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque said in a statement Wednesday. “The biggest Superstars in WWE. The biggest brand in sports media. Are you ready?”

Wrestlepalooza is expected to be a big one for WWE. John Cena is headlining the event, which will also feature Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, CM Punk and Drew McIntyre in major matches. This will officially mark Cena’s last time wrestling in Indy.

ESPN is launching its DTC streaming service on August 21.

source: deadline.com

The Undertaker’s next chapter in WWE revealed by Triple H

Triple H dropped jaws by confirming something fans barely saw coming. In a backstage clip from AAA TripleManía XXXIII in Mexico City on August 16, he called The Undertaker, yes, that Undertaker, “one of the big driving forces behind AAA in Mexico.” That’s not a cameo or a favor it’s full-on creative muscle behind the scenes as WWE’s push into lucha libre heats up.

The remarks came while Triple H was prepping for the event. He quipped how surreal it is looking back: “If you’d have told me 20 years ago that one of the big driving forces behind AAA in Mexico would be the Undertaker, it would’ve been hard for me to sort of wrap my head around that.” Funny how time messes with your expectations.The Deadman’s new bout: building the future, not breaking it.

He isn’t dusting off the boots for another match. Instead, he’s quietly shaping the creative underpinnings of a major global partnership between WWE and AAA. With WWE now integrating lucha libre into their strategy, having a backstage presence like The Undertaker offers legitimacy. His decades-long storytelling instincts might be just what AAA needs as WWE applies its global lens.

It’s not just one-off appearances. Reports from Ringside News suggest Undertaker has been traveling to Mexico regularly, staying hands-on with the product. Triple H even framed TripleManía not as an endpoint but “day one” of a longer, more meaningful collaboration. That wording hits: WWE isn’t just visiting it’s investing.

For fans, this is exciting but subtle. There’s no podium or spotlight just a legend using his creative weight behind the curtain. And in an era where WWE’s storytelling gets heat, maybe the right legends behind the screen can helpx steer the ship.

source: wrestling-world.com

Jim Ross Observes Vince McMahon's Discomfort During Hulk Hogan Special

On a recent episode of his podcast, “Grilling JR,” Jim Ross shared his thoughts on Vince McMahon’s appearance in the FOX/TMZ special about Hulk Hogan. Here are the highlights:

On his surprise at seeing McMahon interviewed: “I’m telling you, I’m not easily shocked. But when I saw him on camera and they stayed in that one-shot forever , you know, you start looking at things. And he looked tired, he looked withdrawn. He looked like he had been abused in that respect. And maybe he felt that way, because he and Hogan were tight. They were buddies, they hung out together, and at one point, often, regular.”

On McMahon’s demeanor: “So I thought he was uncomfortable. But he seemed to be very honest. I didn’t hear Vince say anything on the TMZ piece that I felt like was questionable. He had opinions that you can agree or not agree with, but he was just , I don’t know, maybe he just like one of those deals where you agree to do something, and then you start doing it and then you start regretting doing it. That’s how I felt. And that may not be accurate. That’s how I felt.”

On the content of the show: “If you want to watch it, it’s an hour show. So it’s something to think about if you’re a wrestling fan, Hogan fan, whatever. Interesting piece. And TMZ put a lot of money into the production. They interviewed a lot of people. Mark Henry was on it a lot. He was good, because of the racial things. So that’s why he was on. But it was an interesting little show. But basically a fluff piece on steroids. It told the story and mentioned a couple of things, but not a lot of video that would support their story. I didn’t think it was all bulls**t, but I thought it was going to be a lot more , a lot stiffer, shall we say, than it was.”

On McMahon's visual cues: “Yeah, for those watching our show this morning, look at his eyes. He looked tired and a little frustrated. He looked good. I mean, his suit was custom-made stuff, and he looked good in his attire. But the hair thing was one, one issue that caught my eye. Having his eyebrows colored, another thing that caught my eye. But eyes tell a big story in entertainment and news and things of that nature. I find myself watching the eyes of the news anchors, because that you can all usually tell when they’re bulls**ting. But he was , it was informative, I’ll say that. And I just was surprised that he allowed himself to be on camera that long and that much of that one single shot.”

ESPN inks five-year deal for WWE’s live premium events including WrestleMania

ESPN, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS), and WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO), today announced a landmark rights agreement as ESPN platforms, including the new ESPN direct-to-consumer streaming service, will become the exclusive U.S. domestic home of all WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs), including the two-night cultural phenomenon WrestleMania, starting in 2026. This deal makes ESPN home to the highest-profile WWE events of the year.

The ESPN DTC service will stream all WWE PLEs annually, in their entirety, with select simulcasting on ESPN linear platforms. Marquee PLEs include WrestleMania and SummerSlam – both two-night events – and Royal Rumble, Survivor Series, Money in the Bank, among others. WWE will continue to produce all PLEs.

Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN: “WWE has an immense, devoted and passionate fanbase that we’re excited to super-serve on our new ESPN DTC platform. This agreement, which features the most-significant WWE events of the year, bolsters our unprecedented content portfolio and helps drive our streaming future.”

Mark Shapiro, President and Chief Operating Officer, TKO: “We are proud to reinforce the ‘E’ in ESPN at such an exciting juncture in its direct-to-consumer journey. WWE Premium Live Events are renowned for exactly the type of rich storytelling, incredible feats of athleticism and can’t-miss, cultural tentpole experiences that have become synonymous with ESPN. Through our UFC relationship, we have experienced firsthand how transformational an ESPN presence can be, and we know this will be an exceptional partnership at a time of great innovation for both companies.”

Nick Khan, President, WWE: “WWE’s agreement with ESPN is a pivotal moment for our millions of fans across the United States: the leader in sports entertainment partnering with the biggest brand in sports media. Bringing WWE’s flagship events to ESPN’s platform is tremendously exciting. We know the sky is the limit.”

ESPN platforms, including its DTC service, will have the opportunity to stream WWE’s pre-and post-event shows tied to all Premium Live Events.

All of ESPN. All in One Place. Coming Soon.

For the first time ever, ESPN will offer its full suite of networks and services directly to fans, along with an enhanced ESPN App that integrates game stats, betting information, fantasy sports, commerce, multiview options and a personalized SportsCenter For You. Designed to give fans more choice, flexibility and access to all of ESPN, these new features and functionality will be available to all fans who watch on the ESPN App on mobile and connected TV devices, whether they subscribe directly or through a traditional pay TV package.

Stephanie McMahon Reveals How Triple H’s Heart Procedure Changed Her Perspective

Stephanie McMahon has explained why she stepped away from WWE in 2022.

The WWE Executive sat down with John Cena for a chat on the latest episode of her podcast. They talked about things such as Cena’s issues with his father, his retirement tour and more.

During the session, McMahon also opened up about her husband Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque’s 2021 cardiac event. The Game underwent a heart procedure following it that led to his retirement from the ring. Stephanie mentioned how Levesque almost lost his life:

“I almost lost Paul, my husband, and what’s weird and I haven’t talked about it, is I always had a feeling that I was going to lose him early. I just had that feeling. After we got through everything, that feeling went away. It’s like a pattern that was supposed to happen changed.”

Stephanie McMahon then explained how the whole event led to a change in her perspective and prompted her to step away from the company in May 2022:

“It was such a gift, truly. Then I started going through all this stuff in the company and I realized – there is nothing more important to me than my family, than my husband and my kids. That’s what matters most. I want to give as much time as I possibly can [to them].

I’ve given everything I possibly have to the business my whole life. And I wanted to give back to them. And that’s when I took that first leave of absence, which didn’t last very long.”

source: sescoops.com

Triple H Joins President Trump at White House for Sports Council Expansion

It has been a polarizing year for WWE overall, and among the most notable occurrences that has left WWE fans scratching their heads has been the promotion's political stances. Starting with Triple H and Roman Reigns praising US President, and WWE Hall of Famer, Donald Trump during WrestleMania week, WWE has seemingly continued cozying up to the President, with WWE stars Cody Rhodes, the Street Profits, and Tiffany Stratton all attending a military rally hosted by Trump earlier in the Summer. And prior to SummerSlam this weekend, it appears Triple H will continue the trend.

CNN reports that Triple H will be among the many figures in sports to hosted by White House on Thursday, as Trump signs an executive order "that will expand on his council on sports, fitness and nutrition, including by reviving the Presidential Fitness Test in public schools." In addition to Triple H, notable athletes such as golfer Bryce DeChambeau, NFL kicker Harrison Butker, former college football player Cody Campbell, and NFL Hall of Famer, and WrestleMania XI headliner, Lawrence Taylor.

Triple H's involvement in the ceremony won't shock many, both due to his earlier praise for Trump, and a meeting the WWE Chief Content Officer and his wife, Stephanie McMahon, had with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in June. Though he received criticism for his previous associations with the Trump administration, it appears they have done little to scare Triple H off supporting the President, even as Trump's own approval rating with the American people continues to be spotty.

Triple H to Headline Inaugural TEDSports Event in September

TEDSports announces WWE Chief Content Officer and 14-time World Champion, Paul "Triple H" Levesque, as a featured speaker at its groundbreaking inaugural event Sep 9 – Sep 11, 2025 in Indianapolis. The WWE Hall of Famer will pull back the curtain on one of entertainment's most powerful storytelling machines during this first-ever TED event focused exclusively on sports.

Levesque, who has transformed WWE's creative direction and overseen its successful Netflix launch, now leads content strategy reaching over one billion fans across 150+ countries in more than 20 languages. On the TED stage, he will explore the psychology of performance, building compelling rivalry structures, and the universal power of narrative in building global fandom.

"We're not about exchanging business cards; we're about igniting ideas that can change the world," stated Neelay Bhatt, TEDSports co-chair and curator. "Triple H represents precisely what TEDSports aims to showcase: the power of storytelling and innovative leadership to drive global impact," added Patrick Talty, TEDSports co-chair.

TEDSports is the first-ever TED event dedicated exclusively to the intersection of sport, innovation, and transformative ideas. This highly curated experience will welcome 700–800 global game-changers—from athletes and executives to investors and creatives across academia, business, events, healthcare, sports tech, venues and women's sports - for three days of immersive talks, fireside chats, curated dinners, collaborative workshops, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences at iconic venues including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Lucas Oil Stadium. The full speaker lineup is available online.

"In an industry reshaped by technology and evolving fan expectations, true leadership demands shunning best practices and embracing next practices. TEDSports is for those who aren't just looking to keep up - but to lead what's next" Bhatt added. "Leaders seeking to be inspired, challenged, and truly connected will find their tribe at TEDSports," said Talty.

About TEDSports: TEDSports is the world's first TED event devoted to the intersection of sports, innovation, and ideas. For further information, visit the website and check out some teasers from the organizers here!

Happy Birthday Triple H

Paul Michael Levesque
July 27, 1969

AAA TripleMania 33 to air on YouTube

Speaking highly of AAA Lucha Libre Worldwide’s Alianzas event on social media, Paul “Triple H” Levesque announced that TripleMania 33 will air on YouTube.

Already announced for the event is Hijo del Vikingo defending his Mega Championship against Dragon Lee, El Grande Americano, and Domiminik Mysterio, made official after appearances from the three WWE talent at Alianzas.

The news comes after the WWE x AAA event Worlds Collide was previously aired live on WWE’s YouTube channel.

AAA Lucha Libre Worldwide presents TripleMania 33 on August 16, emanating from Arena Ciudad de Mexico in Mexico City.

WWE Announces Deal With Erin Andrews For Women's Sportswear Line

WWE is partnering with one of the most well-known sports media personalities, Erin Andrews, to bring women's sportswear collections to PLE's, including custom merchandise tailored for female fans.  

At launch, the collection will spotlight top WWE Superstars including Nikki Bella, Rhea Ripley, and Cody Rhodes. Items will feature bold, modern designs inspired by the personalities and storylines fans love. The lineup includes everything from vintage tees and muscle tanks to hooded denim jackets, lace-up hoodies, and cropped long sleeves.

Andrews had a loose connection with WWE back when "SmackDown' aired on Fox, Andrews' longtime home. In a press release issued by WEAR by Erin Andrews, the sportscaster expresses excitement about the partnership. 

"WEAR by Erin Andrews was created to give women a stylish, authentic way to show off and celebrate their fandom. As we kick off this partnership with WWE, we take another step forward in serving an even wider audience of female sports fans while celebrating the passionate, bold energy of the WWE Universe. I'm thrilled we can now offer our fan-favorite WEAR gear to women who want to support their favorite superstars without compromising on style."

In addition to WWE-themed gear, the drop will include limited-edition pieces themed around SummerSlam itself, celebrating the summer's biggest premium live event. Fans can find the collection starting July 25th online at WWEShop.com, Fanatics.com, and at select WWE event venues.

This marks a major expansion for WEAR by Erin Andrews, which has already earned a reputation across major sports leagues for combining fashion and fandom.

The collaboration will officially kick off on SummerSlam weekend, which takes place August 2nd and 3rd from MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. 

credit "WEAR by Erin Andrews" Wrestling Inc. for transcription.

Legendary WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan passes away

From WWE.com:

WWE is saddened to learn that Terry Bollea, recognized globally as Legendary WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, has passed away on July 24 at 71.

One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition with the Hulkamania craze of the 1980s and reignited sports-entertainment’s popularity in the 1990s through his leadership of the New World Order in WCW. Whether he was a hero or villain, clad in red and yellow or black and white, The Hulkster was always one of the ring’s most popular and enduring stars.

Hogan abandoned a career in music with his Tampa, Fla.-based band, Ruckus, when he was discovered by WWE Hall of Famers Jack and Gerry Brisco. In 1977, Hogan began training with Hiro Matsuda, who intentionally broke Hogan’s lower leg just to see if he was passionate enough to return to training in the ring or would instead return to playing bass guitar.

A year later on Aug. 10, 1977, Hogan had his first match against B. Brian Blair in Fort Myers, Fla., for Championship Wrestling from Florida. Hogan competed under a mask as Super Destroyer in Florida and then teamed with his friend Ed Leslie (who would become Brutus Beefcake) as brothers Terry and Ed Boulder in Alabama, Tennessee and Georgia. It was after appearing on a local talk show in Memphis with TV’s Incredible Hulk, Lou Ferrigno, that he began calling himself Terry “The Hulk” Boulder because he was so much larger than Ferrigno.

He first appeared in WWE in 1979 and was named Hulk Hogan by Vincent J. McMahon. As a villain, Hogan defeated (the future Million Dollar Man) Ted DiBiase in his first match at Madison Square Garden, challenged Bob Backlund for the WWE Championship, and collided with Andre the Giant eight years before WrestleMania III in August 1980 at New York City’s Shea Stadium.

After appearing in "Rocky III," Hogan spent the next three years competing for Verne Gagne’s AWA and Antonio Inoki’s New Japan Pro Wrestling. Hogan then made the move to WWE where he defeated The Iron Sheik to become to WWE Champion on Jan. 23, 1984, beginning a pop culture craze that would be known as Hulkamania.

For nearly a decade, WWE and Hulkamania’s footprints grew together. WWE expanded to nationally syndicated television, then pay-per-per-view, with Hogan headlining in a litany of classics, including teaming with television’s biggest star, Mr. T, at the first WrestleMania and defeating Andre the Giant in front of more than 93,000 fans at WrestleMania III.

All told, Hulk Hogan racked up an unprecedented five WWE Championships, main-evented WrestleMania eight times, and sold millions of T-shirts, toys and anything else you could imagine bearing the red and yellow before leaving WWE in August 1993.

The Hulkster planned on putting his full-time sports-entertainment days behind him and started a career as a television star on the syndicated “Thunder in Paradise.” However, it wasn’t long until he was drawn into sports-entertainment again, this time by “Nature Boy” Ric Flair and new WCW Executive Producer Eric Bischoff. Using Turner Broadcasting’s budget, Bischoff signed Hogan to a seven-figure, part-time contract. In his debut match, Hogan, with Mr. T in his corner and Shaquille O’Neal at ringside, defeated Flair for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship on the Bash at the Beach pay-per-view in Orlando, Fla.

After two years of dominating his competition, Hogan did the unthinkable when he betrayed both WCW fans and WCW heroes Sting, Lex Luger and Randy Savage by joining The Outsiders, Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, to form the New World Order. The nWo was WCW’s greatest weapon in the Monday Night War pitting WCW’s Nitro against WWE’s Monday Night Raw. During his six years with WCW, Hogan won six WCW World Heavyweight Championships.

Almost one year after the demise of WCW, Hogan, Hall and Nash returned to WWE as the reviled nWo in February 2002. While his third stay in WWE lasted less than two years, Hogan was once again embraced by the WWE Universe during his match against The Rock at WrestleMania X8 and later won his sixth WWE Championship from Triple H at Backlash 2002.

In 2005, The Hulkster was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by his Rocky III co-star and friend, Sylvester Stallone, and appeared at WrestleMania 21 the following night.

In 2014, The Hulkster again returned to WWE and was the host of WrestleMania 30. The historic event began with Hogan, The Rock and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, arguably the three most famous sports-entertainers of all time, together in the ring to the delight of more than 75,000 WWE fans from all 50 states and 37 countries at New Orleans’ Mercedes-Benz Superdome, with millions more watching the first WrestleMania to air live on WWE Network.

There are few names more synonymous with sports-entertainment than Hulk Hogan, as the larger-than-life icon was a central figure in WWE’s rise from a regional attraction to the worldwide entertainment leader. The Hulkster’s superhuman size and undeniable charisma helped him reach heights once unthinkable in sports and entertainment, as Hogan packed 93,173 fans into the Pontiac Silverdome for WrestleMania III, won six WWE Championships, starred in movies and set the standard for what a WWE Superstar could be.

WWE extends its condolences to Bollea’s family, friends and fans.WWE is saddened to learn that Terry Bollea, recognized globally as Legendary WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, has passed away on July 24 at 71.

Raw Power: WWE Hits 6 Straight Months in Netflix Top 10

WWE became a pop culture powerhouse over the years thanks to its near-ubiquitous cable TV presence, particularly on USA Network — where “Monday Night Raw” was a staple. Moving the flagship series to Netflix, which is still getting its feet wet with live programming, was seen as a bit of a risk.

Turns out, instead of being siloed behind a paywall, WWE was just going where the viewers already are. Since its move to Netflix on Jan. 6, “Monday Night Raw” has been on a world champion-level run. The franchise immediately became a constant presence on the streamer’s global Top 10 English-language TV charts.

The week of July 7 marked the 27th straight week that “Raw” hit the Top 10 globally. It is averaging about 6.3 million hours viewed per week and just over 3 million views per week, with a view defined as total hours viewed divided by total run time.

“Netflix has been amazing, in every sense of the word. They are phenomenal partners,” says WWE chief content officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque. “And we can’t say enough about WWE fans. They’ve shown up in full force, as passionate and engaged as ever.”

The so-called Netflix bump seems to have helped “Raw” since its jump from linear cable, specifically that last run on USA (which continues to air WWE’s “Smackdown” series). It’s difficult to make a direct viewership comparison between Netflix and USA (where in fall 2024, it averaged 1.65 million viewers a week), because linear channels measure their viewership differently than Netflix does. But the disparity is still stark.

Along with joining Netflix, WWE has benefited from storylines like John Cena’s retirement tour/heel turn, Jey Uso’s World Heavyweight Championship run, Dominik “Dirty Dom” Mysterio winning the Intercontinental Championship and Lyra Valkyria winning the inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Championship.

“It’s everything we could have hoped for and more,” says Gabe Spitzer, vice president of sports at Netflix. “We knew going in that we’re not going to change WWE. It was more, how can we add to it in small ways, and that’s what we’ve seen so far.”

source: variety.com

WWE SummerSlam To Screen Live In Select Regal Cinemas Across U.S. As Start Of Multi-Event Fandango Partnership

Wrestling fans will have another way to experience WWE‘s SummerSlam next month, if they can’t attend in person.

The two-night event, taking place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, will also screen live in select Regal Cinemas across the U.S. on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3, Deadline can exclusively reveal.

The experience marks the launch of a multi-event collaboration between WWE and Fandango. While Regal will be the official exhibitor for SummerSlam, additional exhibitors are expected to join for future WWE live events.

“WWE is one of the most electrifying global entertainment brands, and its events deserve to be experienced on the big screen,” Will McIntosh, President, Fandango, said in a statement Monday. “We’re thrilled to work with WWE and Regal Cinemas to bring the action-packed SummerSlam 2025 cinema presentation to fans nationwide.”

Tickets are now on sale now at Fandango. Fans will have two ticket options to experience SummerSlam on the big screen — either a single-night ticket for Saturday or Sunday, or a two-night ticket bundle that includes access to both screenings and an exclusive SummerSlam t-shirt.

SummerSlam will feature the highly anticipated rematch between Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena and WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes, picking up where they left off after they last met in the ring at Wrestlemania 41.

For those who can’t make it to the theater, SummerSlam will also stream live at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on Peacock in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally.

“WWE has redefined how fans connect with live entertainment, and bringing SummerSlam to Regal’s screens elevates that experience to a whole new level,” Brooks LeBoeuf, Senior Vice President of US Content at Regal Cinemas, said in a statement of their own. “We’re excited to partner with WWE and Fandango to deliver this immersive, action-packed event in theaters —making fans feel like they’re ringside, no matter where they are.”

source: deadline.com

CM Punk Reveals Why His Relationship With Triple H Has Improved

CM Punk says that the reason his relationship with Triple H is less adversarial is because the two men are no longer competing with the other in WWE. Punk opened up on his relationship with Triple H in a brand new interview with TV Insider saying that both he and Triple H have different perspectives now and that because they aren't competing against one another, they can accomplish their goals and help the new crop of talent in the company.

“Between me and Triple H, there is so much more of an understanding. I’ve advanced in my life to a point where I have the perspective I didn’t have before. For him likewise has advanced in life to where he has experiences and knowledge he didn’t have before."

Punk continued regarding Triple H:

Me and him, I think we were both on the main roster, and were talented guys. It was more adversarial because we were competition. Now we’re not and are on the same page and want to help the next generation and kind of guide them the right way with their creativity showing through but also producing them."

Since returning to WWE in November of 2023, Punk has been in prominent matches for a Triple H-led WWE. He wrestled in the night one main event of WrestleMania this year against Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns. Punk lost that match, but it was his first official WrestleMania main event of his career.

This year, Punk will also be wrestling for the world championship at SummerSlam. On this week's episode of Raw, Punk won a number one contender Gauntlet Match and earned the right to face Gunther for the title.

WWE Summerslam airs live on Peacock and Netflix internationally from inside Metlife Stadium on August 2 and August 3. Other announced matches for the show include John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes for the WWE Undisputed Championship, Becky Lynch vs. Lyra Valkyria for the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship, and more.

(WrestlePurist) source: si.com

Maybelline New York named first-ever official cosmetic partner of WWE

WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings, and Maybelline New York, the number one cosmetic brand in the world, announced today a new partnership in which the beauty brand will become the first-ever Official Cosmetics Partner of WWE.

The new agreement commences with Maybelline serving as the Presenting Partner of Evolution – the all-women's Premium Live Event on Sunday, July 13 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

“WWE is excited to collaborate with Maybelline, a partner that not only leads the beauty industry but also shares our vision for highlighting amazing individuals across the roster," said Brit Santypal, Senior Vice President of Partnership Marketing, TKO.

"Maybelline New York is proud to partner with WWE and have the opportunity to put our products to the ultimate test,” said Amy Whang, President of Maybelline New York. “As the presenting sponsor of Evolution, we’re not just showing up in the ring; we’re supporting a global community that inspires confidence and self-expression, both in and out of the spotlight."

In addition to the Presenting Partner designation at Evolution, Maybelline will receive center mat ring branding, a custom vignette and social media integrations. The partnership and activation strategy were developed in collaboration with Beauty Co-Lab, L’Oréal’s media agency of record.

"Maybelline continues to lead the way by moving at the speed of culture — connecting beauty with entertainment in bold, inclusive, and unexpected ways,” said Delphine Hernoux, CEO, Beauty Co-Lab. “At Beauty Co-Lab, we’re proud to have helped shape this milestone partnership with WWE, which reflects the kind of innovative thinking that keeps the brand ahead of the curve."

Triple H Shows Off Special Gift From Saudi Arabia and Turki Al-Sheikh

Triple H was presented with a special gift when WWE was in Saudi Arabia over the weekend.

Saudi Arabia hosted two WWE events last week, with Friday Night SmackDown and the Night of Champions premium live event. While the company was there, Triple H was given a special gift from Saudi sports promoter Turki Al-Sheikh.

Triple H took to social media to reveal the gift and speak on what the moment meant to him, tweeting out:

“A Symbol of Strength, Honor, and Partnership. 1 of 200. Crafted and lined in 24 carat gold. This handcrafted falcon statue is more than just a gift, it is a tribute to a shared journey of excellence, friendship, partnership, and the powerful cultural bridge we continue to build together. In Saudi culture, the falcon represents vision, courage, and prestige. Thank you to Turki Al-Sheikh and the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia for the honor."

Mick Foley Reflects On Working In the Ring With Triple H

Mick Foley says Triple H is better than people give him credit for as an in-ring worker, looking back at his matches with the WWE CCO. Foley battled Triple H throughout the Attitude Era and he recently appeared on D-Von Dudley’s YouTube channel in which he talked about what it was like to work with his fellow WWE Hall of Famer.

“You just know you’re in the ring with greatness,” he said (per Fightful). “This has nothing to do with move sets. You know you’re in the ring with a ring general. You know you’re in the ring with a guy who’s making you the best you can be. So there have been, over the years, people who have said, ‘He wasn’t as good as people thought.’ It’s like, no, I actually think he’s better than you realize. He was that good. Whenever you can watch a match, you go, ‘Wow, there’s just something about a Triple H match.'”

He continued, “It didn’t matter who he was with; it was gonna have shades of a Triple H match. I hoped that I could take my brawling style and make it work with anyone. I was so glad that I caught him at the tail end of my full-time career, when he was trying to push through and become that single guy he knew he could be, and he was simultaneously helping me with the best landing I could have ever asked for.”

Foley battled Triple H several times between 1998 and 2000, with The Game winning most of their matches.

Stephanie McMahon Says Vince Is His Own Worst Enemy in Candid Podcast

Stephanie McMahon and WWE President Nick Khan reflected on Vince McMahon’s complex legacy during a recent appearance on the What’s Your Story podcast. The two offered honest insights into the mindset and impact of the former WWE Chairman, recognizing both his triumphs and personal contradictions.

Stephanie spoke about Vince’s survival-driven mentality, saying, “His mindset was, if he could survive, he won. So just surviving was winning and still is winning for him today. And I do not know how you can ever beat someone at the end of the day if all they need to do is survive to win.”

Nick Khan also gave praise to Vince’s influence in shaping WWE into what it is today, noting, “So all credit to him. I only have admiration for him. As Paul said , Triple H said , at his Hall of Fame speech, family’s complicated. And, you know, obviously, we do not need to get into any of that. But in terms of business, that guy’s an empire builder.”

Stephanie closed the discussion by highlighting Vince’s internal struggles, stating, “Absolutely he is. And no one can take that away from him, no matter what, including himself, who is probably his biggest nemesis , is himself.”

Nick Khan Says He And Triple H Make Mistakes In Business But Learn From Them

In an interview with Stephanie McMahon for What’s Your Story (via Fightful), Nick Khan discussed the learning process for himself and Triple H as they continue to make mistakes in business.

He said: “Same with business, and if you make a mistake in the decision, that’s okay too. Fix it. No issue. Paul (Levesque) and I, Triple H and I, we make mistakes in business every day. The good thing is we have one another, where we can say, ‘I think I did this. What do you think?’ ‘Ah, I don’t think that was the move. Maybe we could think of it the other way.’ ‘Okay, let’s try that,’ and then to the executive committee meeting — the executive committee part of me, the senior leadership team will say, ‘Hey, this got messed up. We’re gonna pivot,’ we’re gonna do X, Y and Z instead and everyone rolls in the same direction.”

Nick Khan has served as WWE’s President since 2023, following the company’s merger with UFC to form TKO Group Holdings. In this role, he has overseen significant strategic initiatives, including the negotiation of a landmark $5 billion, 10-year deal with Netflix to stream Monday Night Raw, marking WWE’s first major move into live streaming. Additionally, WWE has expanded its presence on streaming platforms, with SmackDown returning to USA Network in October 2024 under a new agreement. Khan has also been instrumental in the development of behind-the-scenes content, such as a new docuseries on Netflix, WWE: Unreal, aimed at providing fans with deeper insights into WWE’s operations. His leadership continues to shape WWE’s evolution in the evolving media landscape.

Goldberg's WWE Return To Be His "Last Ride"

The WWE "Monday Night Raw" fans roared and chanted "Goldberg" like it was still 30 years ago when the familiar beats of his entrance music hit. Many in the pro wrestling world are speculating whether he was there for the retirement match he alluded to not long ago.

Bill Goldberg was back in the WWE for the first time in more than three years Monday and announced his return to the ring in a confrontation with world heavyweight champion Gunther. During a segment in which Gunther initially challenged new Money in the Bank winner Seth Rollins, Goldberg instead appeared through the smoke and pyrotechnics once more.

The 58-year-old former NFL player congratulated Gunther on regaining his title last week and then told him they had a match at Saturday Night's Main Event on July 12 in Atlanta. Goldberg's feud with Gunther stems from a segment during the Bad Blood premium live event in Atlanta in October 2024, when Gunther insulted Goldberg in front of his son.

"A few months ago, you started something with me and my family in Atlanta, Georgia, and I am going to make sure I end it in Atlanta, Georgia," Goldberg told Gunther in front of the crowd in Green Bay, Wisconsin on Monday night. "You're mine because you're next."

Goldberg previously said during an appearance on ESPN's SEC Nation on Nov. 2, 2024, soon after his initial confrontation with Gunther, that WWE had granted his request for a retirement match in 2025. Goldberg did not mention retirement during Monday's appearance.

But WWE is already promoting the match as "Goldberg's Last Ride" on merchandise, and Goldberg wore a "Goldberg's Last Ride" shirt out to the ring to confront Gunther.

Goldberg became a pro wrestling sensation in WCW in the late 1990s, with a memorable undefeated streak using his spear and jackhammer finishing moves. He has appeared periodically in the WWE since WCW's demise, but not since a match against Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship at Elimination Chamber in February 2022. Saturday Night's Main Event is scheduled for July 12 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Goldberg's hometown.

Video: Ron Killings has arrived

NWA Lands Weekly Streaming Slot on Roku

The National Wrestling Alliance is set to make a major leap in visibility this summer, as the promotion officially lands a streaming deal with one of the biggest digital platforms in North America. The move is expected to bring the NWA's weekly programming to a broader audience than ever before.

The NWA issued the following:

The National Wrestling Alliance Strikes Streaming DEAL with ROKU

DEADLINE has broken the EXCLUSIVE news that on Tuesday, July 29th, the NWA will begin airing on The Roku Channel for free every Tuesday at 8 pm EST in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

It is the latest sports deal for Roku, which also airs MLB Sunday Leadoff, NBA G-League, Formula E, Pro Volleyball Federation, and Bassmaster.

“When I purchased the National Wrestling Alliance in 2017, it was understood we were inheriting the history and legacy of the most storied brand in all combat sports, so to announce today we have now partnered with the number one TV streaming platform in North America is indeed a moment to be proud of,” said NWA President WIlliam Patrick Corgan. “I look forward to sharing new episodes of ‘NWA Powerrr’ with the incredible audience that Roku brings.”

“We’re thrilled to call The Roku Channel the streaming home of the National Wrestling Alliance, and as Billy and his team continue to excite audiences, we look forward to tapping into the scale of our platform to bring this historic and storied promotion to millions of viewers,” added Joe Franzetta, Head of Sports, Roku Media.

WWE-AAA Crossover Worlds Collide Becomes Company’s Most-Watched Live YouTube Broadcast Ever

WWE today announced that Worlds Collide, its first joint Premium Live Event (PLE) with the recently-acquired Mexican promotion AAA, set a record for the largest live audience in company history for a YouTube broadcast. The event peaked at 764,389 live concurrent viewers across the WWE and WWE Espańol YouTube channels during the main event between AAA Mega Champion El Hijo del Vikingo and WWE superstar Chad Gable.

Still available to watch for free on YouTube, the show, which received rave reviews from fans of both companies as well as journalists from around the world, Saturday’s broadcast has been watched by more than 4.1 million viewers on YouTube in the first 24 hours. On X, #WorldsCollide was the No. 1 trending topic globally on Saturday, and WWE generated more than 32 million social views across all platforms in the first 24 hours.

Wrestlers from both companies mixed it up in several major matches, and some of the longtime veteran Mexican luchadors immediately got over with U.S. viewers who were seeing them for the first time. Chiefly among them, Mr. Iguana (seen above), who has become an overnight sensation with WWE fans and already has a shirt available on the WWE online shop. The evening’s main event between El Hijo del Vikingo and Chad Gable was another standout and for many ranks among the best matches WWE has produced this year.

In April, WWE announced its acquisition of AAA in partnership with Mexico-based sports and entertainment holding company, Fillip. The companies will continue to work together in the months and years to come, including at the upcoming Triplemanía Regia on June 15, where TNA, WWE and AAA wrestlers will appear in the same show for the first time ever.

R-Truth Returns At WWE MITB

The John Cena retirement tour has stopped at Money in the Bank, as the "Never Seen Seventeen" teamed up with Logan Paul to take on WWE World Heavyweight Champion Jey Uso and Cody Rhodes in Saturday's main event. With world champions on both teams, it could have been anyone's match — that is, until a surprise return from the formerly-released R-Truth turned the tide.

From the beginning, Cena and Paul had their tag team dynamic to a science. Countless tag-ins made sure both men stayed relatively fresh throughout the fight amidst turnbuckle bumps and right hooks. Despite their immediate synergy, however, small flashes of ego between Paul and Cena eventually led to a tag team meltdown.

As Cena and Paul exploded into an argument, Uso, who had just survived an arduous tag match stint, crawled to make a hot tag to a bellowing Rhodes. Rhodes bulldozed through the competition, and after a near-fall from Cena's Attitude Adjustment, tricked Paul into hitting Cena with a Springboard Crossbody. Despite Rhodes' temporary revival, Paul and Cena continued to push forward against the team of Uso and Rhodes, with Paul putting Uso through an announce table with a top-rope Moonsault to the outside.

R-Truth Announces Departure From WWE

Just days removed from his match against his "childhood hero" John Cena at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event, Ron "R-Truth" Killings announced his departure from WWE on X, writing "I'm sorry to inform you all. I just got released from WWE. I want to thank WWE for the ride, but MOSTLY I want to thank each and EVERYONE OF YOU who was along for the ride, Thank you for all the love, support, and appreciation you have given me over the years. Thank you."

Moments after, Fightful Select provided some clarification on Truth's situation, noting that the long-time roster member will exit the company when his existing deal expires. Like Shotzi and Sonya Deville previously, WWE reportedly opted not to renew Truth's deal, hence his imminent departure. There is no word on when Truth's current contract with WWE expires.

Truth's affiliation with WWE extends back to 1999 when he inked a deal with the company under the ring name K-Kwik. In this run, Truth notably teamed with WWE Hall of Famer Brian "Road Dogg" James before moving to the Hardcore Championship scene. Truth left WWE in the summer of 2001, then signed with TNA Wrestling (known as NWA: TNA at the time), where he later became a two-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

In 2008, Truth returned to WWE, now under the R-Truth name, for what would be a more extensive stint. Along the way, he enjoyed runs as United States and Tag Team Champion. Perhaps most famously, Truth solidified himself as the winningest 24/7 Champion in WWE history with 53 reigns on his resume.

Details On Vince McMahon's New Company

Earlier, on August 23, 2024, the trademarks “14TH&I” and “14TH & I” were filed to cover services related to private equity fund investment and entertainment production.

The filings were first uncovered by Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics.

Brad Blum, a former WWE executive, is listed as President of 14TH & I. According to his LinkedIn profile, the company is described as:

“a private investment firm focused on the sports, media, and entertainment sectors. We are a disciplined, flexible, long-term capital and strategic partner, primarily targeting buyouts/majority deals, as well as selective growth-oriented minority investments. We seek to partner with and empower exceptional management teams, providing deep expertise, capability, and relationships to help drive significant long-term value.”

The name “14TH & I” appears to reference the location of the Capitol Wrestling Corporation headquarters — once led by McMahon’s father, Vincent J. McMahon — at the corner of 14th and I Streets in Washington, D.C.

In October 2024, it was reported that McMahon was working to establish a new “entertainment hub company,” with plans to develop and produce film and television content.

In January 2025, Conrad Thompson stated that McMahon had purchased a studio and was in the process of building a talent roster for the venture.

This new endeavor follows McMahon’s resignation from WWE/TKO in January 2024 after a lawsuit was filed by former employee Janel Grant, accusing him of sexual assault and sex trafficking. The case remains ongoing.

Between November 2023 and April 2024, McMahon sold TKO shares amounting to nearly $1.5 billion in equity, though he still retains ownership of over 8 million shares.

Vince McMahon sex trafficking case co-defendant John Laurinaitis agrees to help accuser

The co-defendant in the bombshell lawsuit accusing former WWE boss Vince McMahon of sexual abuse and sex trafficking has agreed to cooperate with and give evidence to the woman suing the pro wrestling mogul and the company.

The co-defendant, John Laurinaitis, also reached a confidential settlement with McMahon’s accuser, Janel Grant, according to a statement issued by their representatives on Wednesday.

A filing Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Connecticut shows that lawyers for Grant and Laurinaitis agreed to dismiss her lawsuit against as it applies to the former wrestler and WWE executive with prejudice, which means that it cannot be refiled.

“John Laurinaitis has agreed to cooperate and provide evidence in Janel Grant’s lawsuit against Vince McMahon and WWE,” the reps said in the statement obtained by NBC News.

“His agreement to a confidential settlement is a pivotal next step toward holding McMahon and WWE accountable and bringing justice to Ms. Grant after years of sexual abuse and trafficking,” the reps said.

“Mr. Laurinaitis looks forward to moving on with his life. We cannot provide any additional details at this time.”

source: cnbc.com

Kane: Vince McMahon Was A Visionary, But Triple H Connects With Talent

Glenn Jacobs, better known as Kane in WWE, compares the leadership styles of Vince McMahon, Linda McMahon, and Triple H and how they've all shaped WWE's past, present, and future.

Glenn Jacobs was recently on the Freedom Pact podcast and discussed what it was like to work for Vince McMahon. Glenn started with WWE in 1995 and would become one of the company's longest tenured and most successful wrestlers before leaving the squared circle behind to pursue a political career decades later.

When discussing working for Vince McMahon, Jacobs said that he learned a lot about what to do as a leader and much about what not to do as a leader.

"As far as Vince, he was a great mind. I learned some good things from him. I also learned some things that I'm like, 'That's not how I would do things,' So you learn both. 'Okay, this is something to emulate, and this is something that I shouldn't do,' just leadership styles, when Vince and I are obviously very different in that. It certainly wouldn't work for me. I don't think that's how you do things," Jacobs explained. "One of the things that I've become really passionate about is learning about leadership, and I really do believe that organizations rise and fall on the quality of their leadership, and team building, and doing all those things that I think, if you often think, are cliche, right? But they're not. I mean, it's vitally important.

"I look at WWE now, under the leadership of Triple H, and it's just, wow. I'm so proud of everything that he's been able to do with his own style of leadership," he continued. "Just almost taking the company to another level altogether. Vince is one of the great entrepreneurs in history. I don't think he gets enough credit for that, and it's not just in the wrestling business, just in entertainment, you know? He was very visionary, and he could just see things that none of the rest of us could see at the same time."

When asked if he would describe Vince McMahon's leadership style as autocratic and Triple H's as transformational, Jacobs agreed and explained that Triple H can approach issues with a more wrestler-centric mindset because he is a wrestler.

"I would say that. I think the difference is Triple H was one of the guys and understands the locker room, understands the mentality of the locker room, you know? Vince, again, he was a great visionary, a very good business person, but he was always a promoter. He was always outside of the locker room. So, yes, you do have those two very different styles now, both successful in their own ways. I think now, especially with the trajectory that the company's on, because of Triple H is leadership, and it's going to go places it's never even been before. The company's."

WWE legend Triple H sees his heart failure health scare as 'a gift'

Triple H sees his heart failure as "a gift".

The WWE boss - whose real name is Paul Levesque - has a defibrillator in his chest almost four years after a near death experience when he was suffering from viral pneumonia and a cardiac event, which was caused by a genetic issue and almost cost him his life.

In an interview with his wife Stephanie McMahon for her ESPN series 'Stephanie's Places', he said: "In this really weird, f***** up way, my heart issue was a gift. "It made me see things differently, look at life differently." Stephanie was visibly emotional as she admitted she'd "never heard" him say that before.

He explained: "You can go through life - no matter how great it is or all the things you're doing, and you're just doing it. "All of a sudden, you're partway through it, have a reset and go, 'Holy s***, this doesn't last forever.' " Levesque appeared emotional as Stephanie also fought back tears when he brought out a coin from his pocket. She was choked up as she told him: "I was just about to ask you about that." He said: "You gave it to me. Memento Mori. You can die at any second. This can all stop at any second. "Basically saying, don't get caught up in all these bulls***. Life is f****** fleeting, so it can all go away at any moment."

A few months after his hospitalisation, Levesque - who serves as WWE's chief content officer and leads their creative process across 'Monday Night Raw' and 'SmackDown' - confirmed he would never be getting back in the ring as he officially retired from in-ring competition.

Tyra Mae Steele and Jasper Troy Win WWE LFG Season One

The journey to find WWE’s next breakout stars reached its climax during the season finale of LFG, which aired Sunday on A&E. In a dramatic and emotional conclusion, Tyra Mae Steele and Jasper Troy emerged as the winners of the show’s inaugural season. While the series culminated with them signing NXT contracts, it was noted that all participants are already training at WWE’s Performance Center.

Steele, mentored by The Undertaker, triumphed over Bubba Ray Dudley’s standout, Zena Sterling. Meanwhile, Troy, who was on Booker T’s team, secured victory against Team Undertaker’s Shiloh Hill. With two of his rookies reaching the finals, The Undertaker was crowned the first-ever WWE LFG Champion.

Speaking to Sports Illustrated after their win, Steele shared her excitement: “I’m so excited. It’s been a long time coming. I swear I’ve just been waiting for my moment to shine,” she said. “I just feel elated. I just feel so, so freaking blessed.”

Troy echoed the emotion, reflecting on what the win meant to him: “This is the first thing I ever won,” he said. “I’ve never won a championship or a playoff, you know. So to me, this is like a Super Bowl moment. But I see how someone like DeVonta Smith or A.J. Brown will be like, ‘winning the Super Bowl was cool, but now it’s like what’s next?’”

Steele, whose real name is Tamyra Mensah-Stock, made history as the first Black woman to win Olympic gold in women’s freestyle wrestling at the Tokyo 2020 Games. She signed with WWE in 2023 and has already competed on NXT Level Up. Troy, real name Antione Frazier, brings a football background and debuted in WWE programming last year.

WWE has already confirmed LFG will return for a second season. Michelle McCool is set to join as a new coach, replacing Mickie James.

TKO COO Mark Shapiro: Triple H Is Amazing On Creative Storylines

Triple H has been running WWE creative for the better part of three years as the company sets a new gate record seemingly every month.

In January, WWE Raw premiered on Netflix, marking a new era for the company as the flagship program was off cable TV for the first time ever.

Speaking at the JP Morgan Annual Global Technology, Media, and Communications Conference, TKO COO Mark Shapiro highlighted Triple H and Netflix are growth factors for WWE.

"There are two x-factors when you look at WWE. Netflix, this is the greatest marketing platform you could ever ask for. Their pre-roll is one of the strongest tools. If you're clicking on that icon, you're getting a trailer. The (other) x-factor is the creative power we have behind the brand. Paul Levesque [Triple H] lives and breathes; his whole life has been spent in WWE. He's amazing on the creative storylines. Just when you think you know where he's going, he turns left, like the heel John Cena became and then the champion," said Shapiro. Cena turned heel at WWE Elimination Chamber and won the Undisputed WWE Title from Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41.

Elsewhere during the conference, Shapiro commented on WWE: Unreal. You can find his full comments by clicking here.

credit JP Morgan Annual Global Technology, Media, and Communications Conference Fightful for the transcription.